Get Apple Music on iOS, Android, Mac, and Windows

EDITORS’ NOTES

Arguably the first Asian-American solo rapper to blow up in the States, Jin hit the scene in 2001, dominating "Freestyle Friday" battles on 106 & Park and earning a deal with Ruff Ryders, who were at the absolute height of their powers. His debut single, "Learn Chinese," recycled a classic Das EFX beat and costarred Wyclef. Then his first album, The Rest Is History, finally dropped in the fall of 2004. In the meantime, he added acting to his résumé and appeared in the first 2 Fast 2 Furious film. After lackluster album sales, he parted ways with RR and went the indie route. Ever since, he's steadily been releasing under-the-radar material (The Emcee's Proper?Ganda, I Promise, ABC, and more). Brand New Me is his third EP of 2012, and it finds him reflecting on his career, showing his love for the ladies, and giving props to the Lord over a half-dozen shiny pop beats. Though it's a far cry from his early battle-tested material, there's still some good stuff here. Most notable are "State of Mind," "Feel Good," and the title track.

EDITORS’ NOTES

Arguably the first Asian-American solo rapper to blow up in the States, Jin hit the scene in 2001, dominating "Freestyle Friday" battles on 106 & Park and earning a deal with Ruff Ryders, who were at the absolute height of their powers. His debut single, "Learn Chinese," recycled a classic Das EFX beat and costarred Wyclef. Then his first album, The Rest Is History, finally dropped in the fall of 2004. In the meantime, he added acting to his résumé and appeared in the first 2 Fast 2 Furious film. After lackluster album sales, he parted ways with RR and went the indie route. Ever since, he's steadily been releasing under-the-radar material (The Emcee's Proper?Ganda, I Promise, ABC, and more). Brand New Me is his third EP of 2012, and it finds him reflecting on his career, showing his love for the ladies, and giving props to the Lord over a half-dozen shiny pop beats. Though it's a far cry from his early battle-tested material, there's still some good stuff here. Most notable are "State of Mind," "Feel Good," and the title track.